Top 10: International Motorcycle Routes

Number 2

Christchurch to Auckland

Few people have the zeal to tour a whole country on a motorcycle, but superb roads from Christchurch to Auckland, New Zealand allow adventurers to do just that. Thanks to the country's incredible array of geographical wonders — riders pass by glaciers, towering mountain peaks, volcanoes, lush forests, and beaches — this route provides an awe-inspiring experience for every type of traveler.

Riders will need to book two weeks to truly enjoy this trip, which begins at the southern tip of New Zealand's South Island. From there, the tour winds past Mount Cook, the country's highest peak, as well as picturesque glacial lakes and the towns of Nelson and Queenstown. After riding the hour-long ferry to the North Island, bikers see rural countryside, forest and beaches before arriving in Auckland in New Zealand's north.

Tour highlight: The road from Te Anau to Queenstown is the best part of the trip, as it meanders through lakes, mountain sides and coastline, culminating in a ride along the coast of the Tasman Sea.

Number 1

The Western Alps

Beginning in Zurich, Switzerland, riders with a lust for extreme mountain roads, thin air and great food will head out north by northeast, passing through Germany's Black Forest before reaching France's Alsace region. From there, head to Savoie, home of Europe's highest Alps. Here you'll visit beautiful little towns like Annecy before riding through two of the continent's highest mountain roads: Col d'Iseran and Cime de la Bonette.

If that's not enough, you can double back after eating up the French roads in order to visit the Alps of Switzerland and Italy. Touring these two countries' mountainous regions will reveal a double dose of riding fun and culture (including gourmet dining at all pit stops) that cannot be missed.

Tour highlight: The Southern Alpine pass of Col du Galibier provides panoramic views and follows the same route as one of the Tour de France's most challenging legs.

get your motor running

You don't have to limit yourself to city driving on a Saturday in order to feel some release on your motorcycle. These motorcycle routes are trips in themselves; international adventures that will challenge your riding abilities and stimulate your senses. When you really want to "head out on the highway," this is the way to do it.